Equities up most in 3 weeks as inflation outlook slows

SHANGHAI - China's stocks rallied the most in three weeks on speculation that slowing inflation will provide more leeway for the central bank to ease monetary policy.

Stocks also got a lift from a government pledge to support first-time homebuyers.

Jiangxi Copper Co, the largest producer of the metal, soared 10 percent after an economist said China might "move shortly" to help Europe resolve its debt crisis. China Vanke Co, the biggest developer, rose 2.9 percent after the central bank said the government would increase support for the construction of affordable housing.